Javier Duarte, the imprisoned former governor of Veracruz, has drawn public attention for his unusual dietary choice of a honey and lemon regimen during his legal troubles, which led to significant weight loss of up to 34 kilograms. His dietary discipline emerged amid serious allegations of criminal conspiracy and embezzlement of public funds, which resulted in his imprisonment. Reports from August 2016 highlighted Duarte's adherence to this 'rigorous diet', although he provided few details about it, fueling speculation about his health and mindset during his legal battles.

Duarte's legal issues escalated after he requested a leave of absence from his position in October 2016 and subsequently went missing. He was later found and arrested in Guatemala following an Interpol red notice. Upon his return, Duarte appeared markedly different, sporting an atypical beard and a significantly thinner physique compared to his last public appearance. These changes sparked discussions around not only his physical transformation but also his psychological state and approach to his legal predicament amidst serious allegations.

As Duarte faces up to 14 more years in prison if convicted, his unusual diet has become a curious aspect of his story, reflecting a deeper narrative about the personal consequences of his political actions. The public interest in his case continues to highlight the intersection of politics, personal health, and the pervasive scrutiny faced by former political leaders in Mexico, particularly those involved in corruption scandals.